On Thursday May 29, librarian and social media sensation Mychal Threets came to Clifton Park to spread his “library joy.” He regaled an audience of over 300 people at Shenendehowa High School West with thoughtful and funny stories about library kids and library adults, many of whom he saw firsthand in his time as a children’s librarian – at the very library he spent much time in as a child.
During an hour-long conversation with Jim Foster, CPH Library Assistant Director, Mychal addressed mental health issues and the library’s role in creating a community for all. In his signature style of openness and candidness, he shared his own mental health struggles, and the fact that libraries are one of the last “third spaces” that are available for all. “The library is for every single person,” Mychal reflected, despite age, health, neurodivergence, or other differences. “The library was created for them – for you.”
Mychal fell in love with the library as a shy kid with anxiety – it became a safe haven. He noted that book characters were his friends, and that it was nice to feel accepted at the library, even as a quiet kid. This helped develop his “library joy,” which he now spreads through social media, nationwide visits, and a partnership with PBS as “Librarian in Residence.”
A highlight was the tour of his arm tattoos featuring his favorite book characters, including Grover, Totoro, and Arthur Read’s library card. Mychal jokingly lamented that he neglected to include the library card’s bar code, so it is not functional.
By blending a message of welcoming all, bringing mental health to the surface in everyday conversation, and spreading joy, Mychal is making a difference in thousands of lives for both library kids and library grownups all around the world. You can find him on Facebook at Mychal Threets, and Instagram at @mychal3ts.